United States

AML / KYC

Authorities Dismantle Russia-Linked Crypto Firm Bitzlato

By Manesh Samtani | 18/01/2023

Bitzlato facilitated $700mn in crypto transfers for Hydra users and received more than $15mn in ransomware proceeds.

Market Infrastructure

ESMA Adds TAIFEX to List of Recognised Third Country CCPs

By Editors | 18/01/2023

The recognition allows European financial institutions to apply the minimum risk weight of 2 percent for exposures to TAIFEX derivatives.

Securities / Derivatives

Two Chinese Airlines to Voluntarily Delist from NYSE

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/01/2023

The voluntary delistings are a recognition that Chinese state firms will be unable to provide US regulators full access to their audit records as required.

ESG / Sustainability

Thai SEC Issues New Climate Risk Guidelines for Asset Managers

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/01/2023

The voluntary guidelines are intended to help asset managers assess and disclose the impacts of climate risks on their portfolios.

Crypto / Digital Assets

BitConnect Victims Receive $17mn Restitution from Crypto Fraud

By Editors | 16/01/2023

BitConnect was an online crypto lending platform that collapsed in 2018, causing investor losses estimated at over USD 2.4 billion.

Enforcement

Thailand: SEC’s Latest Tool to Protect Crypto Investors: Free E-Learning

By Manesh Samtani | 16/01/2023

The ‘Crypto Academy’ is one of several measures the SEC has taken to protect crypto investors since local exchange Zipmex halted customer withdrawals in July 2022.

Enforcement

US SEC Files Charges Against Crypto Firms Gemini, Genesis

By Editors | 13/01/2023

The SEC says the Gemini Earn programme, which allowed investors to earn interest on their crypto assets, constituted the offer and sale of unregistered securities.

Crypto / Digital Assets

CFTC Takes First Action Involving Decentralised Crypto Exchange

By Manesh Samtani | 12/01/2023

The CFTC filed fraud and swap manipulation charges against a hacker, saying the Commodity Exchange Act applies to decentralised blockchain-based trading platforms.

ESG / Sustainability

Thai SEC Signs New Financial Services MoU with UK

By Editors | 11/01/2023

The MoU will focus on developing the FinTech sector, promoting sustainable finance, and increasing awareness of sustainable investment in Thailand and other ASEAN countries.